Friday the 13th: The psychology behind the superstition

Friday recently fell on the 13th day of the month, an event long considered very unlucky in Western superstition. Some trace the superstition to the story of the Last Supper and a 13th guest who betrayed Jesus to be crucified on a Friday. Superstitions are common throughout human cultures, ranging from avoiding walking under a ladder to using charms and elaborate ceremonies to ward off bad luck. Psychologists say superstitions can offer people a sense of control over the uncertainties of life.

Class discussion: Are you afraid of Friday the 13th, black cats, or broken mirrors? Do carry good luck charms or perform little rituals to help you win a game or other contest? Do you believe in good luck and bad luck? Why or why not? Do you think you can invoke supernatural powers to help you control the course of your life? Do you think the phases of the moon or the movement of the planets can influence human events? How have superstitions changed how people live or make personal, business, and political decisions?